DOGS RULE, BABIES DROOL
Reading David Wolman’s diatribe against dogs (“Dog Dazed,” January 2008), I was struck by how easily, with just a few wording changes, one could recount horror stories of encounters with parents and children instead of dogs and dog owners: Diners at restaurants grimacing at dogs baying outside the window? What of children baying at the next table, or running up and down the aisles, or repeatedly kicking the back of your seat in an airplane while the mother does nothing?

Not to mention that most common parental intrusion on privacy, the belief that someone the parents have just met at a party is intensely interested in hearing all about their brilliant and wonderful child. When Wolman concluded his polemic by praising the manners of parents, I could only conclude that he sees what he wants to see and has blinded himself to the rest.

BARRY BENNETT
Southeast Portland

POK POK TALK
While there is blame to go around, I would gently point out a couple of issues with [Stephanie Glyzewski’s] rant about Pok Pok (Letters, January 2008). One, if you go so far as to include the fact that you were seated 10 minutes late (implying that punctuality is important to you) then you should exercise that same consideration when the server indicated that there was another large party waiting to be seated. A reservation does not imply an endless right to your table, especially in a restaurant as popular and cozy as Pok Pok.

Secondly, I would suggest that before you take a party crowd of nine to any restaurant, you do some reconnaissance beforehand to understand the ambiance, seating arrangements and meal duration.

In defense of her rant, it would be a good idea for Pok Pok to alert large parties of a maximum seating time and, perhaps, a minimum gratuity.

JIM LAKE
Oregon City

LET’S GET PHYSICAL
As a health care professional, I enjoy reading your annual Top Docs issue (January 2008).

But I noticed this year that you excluded physical therapists from your listings of alternative health care practices and healing providers.

Physical therapy is an option covered by insurance, and most insurance companies do not require a doctor’s referral. Physical therapists are licensed to treat a wide range of health concerns, including sports and orthopedic injuries, neck and back pain, headaches, post-surgery, joint and muscle injuries, neurological disorders, incontinence, women’s health issues, overall wellness and many other problems associated with diseases.

I am disappointed in your lack of representation for physical therapy and hope that in the future, you will help to spread the word about the importance of my profession.

ELISA M. KENNEDY DPT
North Portland